Comparison of the Impact of Various Exercise Modalities on Parkinson's Disease

Exercise is a critical nonpharmacological intervention for Parkinson's disease (PD); however, comparative evidence on the efficacy of different exercise modalities is limited. This study aimed to compare the effects of tai chi, strength training, yoga, and home-based exercises on motor function in patients with PD.

In this multicenter, open-label, randomized clinical trial, 99 patients with PD were allocated to one of four exercise interventions: tai chi, strength training, yoga, or home-based exercises. Each intervention consisted of 12 weeks of supervised sessions, followed by 12 weeks of independent practice. The primary outcomes included the Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) Part III and timed up-and-go (TUG) test parameters. The assessed secondary outcomes included physical activity (measured via short physical performance battery and the 6-minute walking test [6MWT]), balance (measured via the Mini-BEST), and freezing of gait (measured via the New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire).

Home exercise and tai chi demonstrated significant improvements in the MDS-UPDRS Part III scores over 24 weeks. The 6MWT was improved by home exercises and tai chi; additionally, the Mini-BEST test scores were enhanced by strength exercises and yoga. The total duration and forward movement of the TUG test, as well as the turning duration measured via the wearable sensor, were markedly improved in the yoga group.

Our results support the notion that various types of adherence to and outcomes of exercise can be observed in real-world settings, even though the effectiveness of exercise is well established. These findings highlight the importance of tailoring exercise regimens by considering individual patients in PD management.